Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. They direct rainwater away from the foundation, prevent erosion, protect your siding, and reduce the risk of basement flooding. But when it's time to replace or install new gutters, homeowners often ask one important question: how much are gutters?
At State Restoration Services, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners choose the right gutter system for their needs and budget. This guide will break down gutter pricing in a simple, easy-to-understand way — including materials, installation costs, and the factors that influence the final price.
Understanding the Cost: How Much Are Gutters on Average?
When people search “how much are gutters,” they’re usually looking for a general price range. While the final cost depends on your home, materials, and installation complexity, here are the national averages:
Average Gutter Installation Costs
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$3 – $40 per linear foot, depending on the material
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$1,000 – $3,000 total for most homes
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$3,000 – $8,000+ for large or complex homes
This wide range exists because gutter pricing is heavily influenced by the type of material you choose.
How Much Are Gutters by Material Type
Here’s a breakdown of the most common gutter materials and their typical cost per foot.
1. Vinyl Gutters
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$3 – $6 per foot
Vinyl is the cheapest option, lightweight, and easy to install — but it’s also the least durable. Vinyl can crack in harsh weather and usually lasts 5–10 years.
2. Aluminum Gutters
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$4 – $12 per foot
This is the most popular material. Aluminum gutters are affordable, durable, rust-resistant, and long-lasting. They’re ideal for most climates.
3. Seamless Aluminum Gutters
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$6 – $14 per foot
Made on-site with a custom machine, seamless gutters reduce leaks and offer better long-term performance. This is the most common choice for homeowners who want quality and value.
4. Steel Gutters
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$8 – $12 per foot
Stronger than aluminum but heavier and prone to rust. Popular for commercial buildings or harsh climates.
5. Copper Gutters
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$20 – $40 per foot
The premium choice. Copper gutters last 60–100 years, never rust, and add an elegant architectural look. They require a larger upfront investment but offer unmatched durability.
What Affects the Total Cost of Gutters?
Understanding how much are gutters requires knowing which factors influence pricing. Here are the most important ones:
1. Size of Your Home
Gutters are priced per linear foot. So the more roofline your home has, the more you’ll pay.
Small homes (100–150 feet):
➡️ Lower cost
Large homes (200–300+ feet):
➡️ Higher cost
2. Roof Complexity
A simple straight roof is cheaper than one with:
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valleys
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peaks
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dormers
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multiple stories
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steep pitch
Complex roofs require more labor and more custom cuts.
3. Number of Downspouts
Downspouts help water flow safely away from your home.
Cost: $50 – $150 each
Homes with more corners or longer gutter runs may need more downspouts.
4. Gutter Size: 5” vs 6”
Standard residential gutters are 5 inches.
But many homes — especially in heavy-rain areas — benefit from 6-inch gutters.
6-inch gutters cost more but offer better water flow.
5. Additional Accessories
These components may increase the total cost:
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end caps
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elbows
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brackets and hangers
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splash blocks
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extensions
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miters for corners
Each small piece adds to the overall project total.
6. Removal of Old Gutters
If your old gutters need to be taken down, that adds:
$1 – $2 per foot
to the project cost.
7. Labor and Location
Labor rates vary by region.
Urban or high-cost areas often have higher installation costs.
How Much Are Gutters Installed vs. DIY?
Many homeowners wonder if they can save money by installing gutters themselves. Let’s compare.
DIY Installation
Pros:
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Cheapest option upfront
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Good for small, one-story homes
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Vinyl sections are easy to snap together
Cons:
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Easy to miscalculate slope
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Higher chance of leaks
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Unsafe for multi-story homes
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No warranty
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Time-consuming
DIY materials typically cost:
$200 – $600 total, depending on size and material.
Professional Installation
Pros:
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Guaranteed proper slope
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Precise measurements
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Durable installation
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Seamless gutters available
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Safe, insured labor
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Long-term warranty
Cons:
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Higher upfront cost
Professional installation typically costs:
$1,000 – $3,000 for aluminum systems.
How Long Do Gutters Last Based on Cost?
Another important part of the question “how much are gutters” is understanding their lifespan.
Vinyl: 5–10 years
Aluminum: 20–30 years
Steel: 15–25 years
Copper: 60–100+ years
Seamless aluminum: 25–40 years
Spending more upfront can result in decades of protection.
Are Cheap Gutters Worth It?
Short answer: usually no.
Cheap vinyl gutters seem appealing, but they:
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crack easily,
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warp in hot or cold weather,
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sag quickly,
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frequently leak at seams,
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require more maintenance.
Most homeowners find that aluminum or seamless gutters offer far better value.
Are Gutters a Good Investment?
Absolutely. Here’s why replacing your gutters is worth the cost:
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Prevents foundation damage
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Reduces basement flooding
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Protects siding and exterior walls
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Prevents soil erosion
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Protects your roof edges
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Reduces mold risk
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Improves curb appeal
Water damage is extremely expensive to repair — and gutters are your first line of defense.
How to Save Money on New Gutters
If you're wondering how much are gutters and how to reduce the cost, here are helpful tips:
✔ Choose seamless aluminum for best value
✔ Install gutter guards to reduce cleaning costs
✔ Bundle gutter replacement with roof or siding work
✔ Compare quotes from reputable companies
✔ Ask for seasonal discounts
Smart planning can save hundreds of dollars.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Gutters
Even the best gutters eventually wear out. Replace them if you see:
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rust or corrosion
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peeling paint
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frequent leaks
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sagging sections
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mold on exterior walls
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pooling water around the foundation
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cracks or splits
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overflowing during storms
If multiple signs appear, a new system is likely needed.
Final Thoughts
So, how much are gutters?
For most homeowners, the cost ranges from $3 to $14 per foot depending on the material, plus installation. Premium materials like copper cost more but last several decades.
A high-quality gutter system is essential for protecting your home from water damage. Whether you need budget-friendly aluminum or premium copper, the key is choosing a trusted contractor.
View our residential roofing page for more information, or book free inspection here.
If you’re ready for an inspection, replacement, or professional installation, State Restoration Services is here to help you choose the best gutter system for your home.